I used RR-Track extensively when I was starting out to do what if's on the original design of the layout and found it quited helpful. My layout is quite "grade challenged" and it was indespensible for getting a layout without really silly grades. It has a grade checker and will do a complete materials list for you.
I haven't used it in years so I can't tell you anything about the latest edition. It can pay for itself just in not overbuying track and setting a budget. Once I had the intial design, all expansions are now done by throughing track down on the ground and seeing what goes with the land.
Do a search of this website for layout software and you will get a bunch of hits
whiterab wrote:I used RR-Track extensively...
I have not bothered to go to track planners and such however its only because i don't have th confidence in my computer skills to do so. I actually draw it out on graph paper and use a water level and other stuff to work out some complex gradient situations.
Ian
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